Management of the marginal dentition

Abstract

The patient with a marginal dentition because of dental disease or previous tooth loss may be treated with conventional fixed or removable partial dentures, modified removable partial dentures, tooth-supported overdentures, or complete dentures. For the patient with a marginal dentition—that is, a dentition of a borderline prognosis because of dental disease or previous tooth loss—a decision must be made as to which treatment method to use. Among the wide spectrum of treatment methods available are conventional fixed and removable partial dentures, modified types of removable partial dentures, tooth-supported overdentures, and complete dentures. The unique requirements of the patient must be considered carefully when a treatment plan is formulated. Whatever treatment procedures are selected, an essential portion of therapy is that performed after insertion of the restoration. Continuing professional care is a lifetime necessity.